1994 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2011 Opel Astra. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW M3 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2011 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1994 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1994 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Opel Astra. (176 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1994 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW M3 | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
